In Loving Memory of Bill O'Byrne

William “Bill” O’Byrne, 98, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2025, in Jacksonville, Florida. Born August 3, 1926, in Racine, Minnesota, he was the second of six children born to Mark Edward O’Byrne and Anna B. Stiles.

Bill’s life was marked by service, curiosity, and quiet strength. At 16, he left home to travel the American West before returning to graduate from Stewartville High School in 1944. He served in the Merchant Marines during World War II and later joined the U.S. Army Air Corps, becoming a charter member of the U.S. Air Force in 1947.

After completing his service, Bill earned a degree in Electrical Engineering from Clemson University, graduating magna cum laude. He began his career with IBM before serving for more than three decades as a civilian engineer with the U.S. Air Force, where he contributed to defense and aerospace systems critical to national security and space exploration. He retired with the Air Force Outstanding Civilian Career Service Award.

A man of deep faith and conviction, Bill taught Sunday School for over 70 years, served as a Scoutmaster, and held many roles within Christian churches and community organizations. He believed in hard work, truthfulness, and loving others with purpose and humility.

Bill is preceded in death by his son, William H “Bill” O’Byrne, his wife Sara Jane McKinney O'Byrne, his wife Betty Collins O’Byrne and his siblings Edward, George, Mary, and Roy. His memory lives on through his daughter Jane Petrillo; step-daughters Lynda Jolly (Mark) and Alison Bennett (Glenn); grandson Jeff Petrillo (Rachel); step-grandchildren Amber Hollister (Ray) and Brandon Jolly; great-grandsons Bryson, Eli, and Noah; and his sister Rose. He is also remembered by children, stepchildren, and former spouses from other chapters of his life.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Edgewood Avenue Christian Church, 1041 Edgewood Ave S, Jacksonville, FL 32205. In lieu of flowers, Bill requested that memorial gifts be made to the Florida Christian Center, 1115 Edgewood Ave S, Jacksonville, FL 32205.